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Spring is upon us and it’s time for you and your pup to enjoy the warmer weather. But there are some important things to remember to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. These 8 safety tips ensure that Spring doesn’t put a damper on your fun!

1. Save the Sticks
Sticks — now readily available after the winter thaw — can cause choking and severe injuries in dog’s mouths and throats. So if your dog likes to chew and chase, pack a Frisbee, tennis ball or other toy instead.

2. Keep Fido Away from New Plants
Many dogs like to eat grass, but if your dog likes to chew on other plants, now’s the time to get out your plant guide. Some native plants can cause vomiting, diarrhea or even death, so before you let your pooch chomp down on those leafy greens, check out this guide to toxic and non-toxic plants.

3. Use Pet-Friendly Products for Spring Cleaning
Spring cleaning is the perfect occasion to review your cleaning product’s pet-friendliness. If the bottles do not say their contents are dog-safe, it’s best to keep these products where your dog can’t get them. If your dog does ingest a household cleaner, the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association recommends you, “do not call a human poison control center; they do not have any information on pets. Instead, contact your veterinarian and/or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Hotline (888-426-4435) for accurate information.”

4. Watch Your Dog for Signs of Seasonal Allergies
Some dogs develop allergies to common seasonal plants, like ragweed. But, unlike people, these allergies usually present as skin problems in dogs, according to Dr. Stephanie Janeczko D.V.M. in How Do I Know if My Dog Has Allergies?

“Because dogs with atopy [inhaled allergies] are frequently allergic to pollens and grasses, they often have a seasonality to their symptoms but can show signs all year long if they are allergic to something that is always in the environment (such as dust mites),” says Dr. Janeczko.

5. Hide the Antifreeze
Cars use antifreeze year-round, so you always need to stay vigilant to keep your pup safe. Many dogs like the taste of antifreeze because it’s sweet, but it’s also deadly. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your dog’s been exposed.

6. Start Flea and Tick Prevention Early
The American Heartworm Association now recommends keeping dogs on year-round flea and tick preventatives to guard against heartworm disease. If your dog is not already on a preventative regimen, now is the time to start.

7. Prevent Dog-Park Bullying By Knowing the Signs
As the weather gets warmer, you may be bringing your dog to the dog park more often. Make sure it’s a safe and fun time for all by knowing the symptoms of bullying and how to deal with them.

8. Keep Artificial Sweeteners Away from Your Dog
Springtime and Easter go hand in hand and that means plenty of chocolate and other dangerous dog treats. Keep your pup safe as you celebrate spring by keeping all sweets, candies and gum away from your dog. While many people know about the dangers of chocolate, only a small amount of the common artificial sweetener xylitol can be deadly.